How to Design a High-Altitude Tree House
Designing a high-altitude tree house involves many of the same planning strategies as building a standard tree house, with special consideration given to the location of the structure and stability of the tree(s) you are going to use. Fir trees offer more stability on the higher branches, maple and palm are sturdy throughout, and Bunyan trees grow so fast that the tree and the house will often merge together, creating additional support over time.
The designing stage is done on paper, so you have the chance to be as creative as you like before you call in a professional to tell you the viability of your plans.
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Instructions
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Consider the potential sites for a high-altitude tree house on your property. Inspect potential trees for disease, pests and rot. If there is going to be a lot of foot traffic under the tree, consider the root system. The shallow roots of beech and oak trees may become compacted, adversely affecting tree health. You'll want to choose a mature tree(s) that is not nearing the end of its life cycle. You may wish to research the life cycle of trees to determine your most viable options.
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Check local building laws for regulations concerning tree houses in your area. You do not want to build a structure only to have it torn down because it is illegal. It is also polite to discuss the structure with any neighbors that will have view of it.
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Think about climate. High-altitude structures are more susceptible to the elements as they are more exposed to wind and weather, and often made of lightweight materials that are more easily damaged.
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Measure the branches or trees to which the platform will be attached. This base measurement will be the beginning of your drawing on paper.
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Draw the platform to scale on paper. Graph paper is helpful, but is not necessary as long as you know your measurements. Now you must consider the details: dimensions, how many stories you want, if there are going to be any windows, if the structure is going to be closed in or open, and if you are going to build stairs or use a rope ladder. What is the purpose of the house? Will it be a fort, or will you be living in it?
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Call an arborist to determine the feasibility of your plans. The site http://www.arborday.org/treeinfo/treeHealth/arborist.cfm can help you contact an arborist in your area.
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Contact a local construction company that specializes in tree structures. Even if you wish to do the building yourself, they will be able to give you tips for your chosen site.
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Tips & Warnings
Elm trees are not good for building structures, as they tend to suffer from numerous diseases and attract a lot of pests.
After construction is completed, it is prudent to take extremely good care of the tree(s) housing your structure. Pruning, fertilizing and removing any dead branches are all ways that you can increase the health of the tree, enabling your tree house to remain a success.
High-altitude tree houses pose many dangers. Always contact a professional when building this type of structure.
